The history of Portolano as a glove producer began in Naples when Aldo and Ivo's grandfather, Fortunato Portolano, began manufacturing in the year 1895. The company was a pioneer of the Italian glove exporters and as early as 1911, Portolano was selling leather gloves to the United States and the British colonies.

The second generation of glove producers were six Portolano brothers, one of whom, Vittorio, Aldo and Ivo's father, opened his own factory in 1933. Thanks to the technology, quality and styling developed by the family, the Portolano brand was established as a leading name in the world of glove manufacturing during the period of World War I and World War II. In 1969, Aldo and Ivo Portolano established the present company as an independent venture.

Seeking to explore new market opportunities, Aldo and Ivo opened Adriste Philippines, Inc., located in Baguio City. The factories in Italy and in the Philippines ship goods all over the world. Due to customer demand in North America, Portolano Products Inc. was established in New York in 1985 and in Toronto in 1986. At both locations, retailers can find all the various leather and knitted products which bear the Portolano standard of excellence.

Nowadays Portolano sells to many department stores around the world under private label but also manufactures under the licensees for Moschino, Les Copains, The Bridge, Bluemarine, Alberta Ferretti.